Ministry of Justice and UNICEF sign the 2026–2027 Rolling Work Plan to strengthen child-friendly justice

10 September 2026, Chisinau – The Ministry of Justice and UNICEF signed the Rolling Work Plan for 2026–2027. The document was signed during the courtesy visit between Minister of Justice Vladislav Cojuhari and the new UNICEF Representative to the Republic of Moldova, Deyana Kostadinova. 

The Plan sets out joint actions to strengthen a justice system that is responsive to children’s needs and rights. Priorities include the specialization of justice professionals, stronger cooperation between the justice, social protection and health sectors and law enforcement agencies, the development of services for child victims or witnesses of crime, and the expansion of alternatives to detention for children in conflict with the law. The Plan also includes actions to further develop Barnahus-type services, strengthen probation and restorative justice, and expand reintegration programs. 

Minister Vladislav Cojuhari stressed that the next stage of cooperation should place greater emphasis on prevention and on interventions that fully respond to children’s needs. 

“We appreciate UNICEF’s continued support and what we have managed to build together so far. Going forward, we intend to place greater emphasis on prevention, so that we can intervene before a child becomes a victim of violence or comes into conflict with the law. This requires education, accessible services, and meaningful alternatives for children. It is important that available resources are directed where they can have a tangible impact,” said Minister of Justice Vladislav Cojuhari. 

“The Republic of Moldova already has good practices in the area of justice for children, and the next step is to ensure that the services and solutions developed reach the children who need them most. Building on the efforts of recent years, as well as through the Plan we signed today, we aim to translate our shared priorities into tangible results for children, with a focus on prevention, services tailored to their needs, and alternatives that protect their rights and future prospects. UNICEF will continue to support the Ministry of Justice with expertise and international experience, so that the best interests of the child remain at the heart of the justice system,” said Deyana Kostadinova, UNICEF Representative to the Republic of Moldova. 

The Plan will be implemented through the end of 2027 and forms part of the continued cooperation between the Ministry of Justice and UNICEF to strengthen child-friendly justice, protect children’s rights and develop services tailored to their needs.